Wirtschaftlich

Wirtschaftlich is a German adjective and adverb derived from Wirtschaft, the concept of the economy. It generally denotes relation to the economy, economic activity, or value from an economic perspective, and can be translated as economic or economically in English. The corresponding noun is Wirtschaftlichkeit, meaning economic viability or cost-effectiveness.

In usage, wirtschaftlich describes phenomena, processes, or decisions with regard to the economy. Common phrases include wirtschaftliche Lage (economic situation), wirtschaftliche Entwicklung (economic development), wirtschaftliche Interessen (economic interests), and wirtschaftliche Einheit (economic unit). As an adverb it appears in expressions such as wirtschaftlich gesehen or wirtschaftlich betrachtet, meaning economically speaking or from an economic point of view.

Relation to ökonomisch: Both adjectives are often near-synonymous, but there can be nuance. Wirtschaftlich emphasizes real-world economic aspects and practical viability, while ökonomisch can carry a more theoretical, policy-oriented, or academic tone. In everyday language, wirtschaftlich is widely used; in academic or policy contexts, ökonomisch may be preferred.

Wirtschaftlichkeit is the noun form referring to cost-effectiveness or efficiency, as in Die Wirtschaftlichkeit einer Investition (the economic viability of an investment) or die Wirtschaftlichkeit von Prozessen (the cost-effectiveness of processes). It is common in business, finance, and public policy discussions.

Note: In German, wirtschaftlich does not primarily mean thrifty or frugal; for that sense, terms like sparsam or kostengünstig are used.